Wellington: New Zealand Rugby (NZR) on Wednesday announced scrum-half Aaron Smith has signed a four-year contract extension taking him through to the 2019 World Cup.
The 26-year-old, who helped steer the Otago Highlanders to this year’s Super 15 title, has played 41 Tests since his international debut against Ireland in June 2012.
The All Blacks face a talent drain after this year’s World Cup — with the likes of Richie McCaw, Dan Carter and Ma’a Nonu set to depart — and NZR chief executive Steve Tew said retaining young talent such as Smith was important.
“With the signing of Aaron, together with Brodie [Retallick], Julian [Savea] and Dane [Coles], we now have a core group of key players committed long-term to the All Blacks and their Super teams, which is fantastic,” he said.
